The life of a military service member is filled with challenges, many of which are shared by their spouse and family. Frequent moves, active deployments and career advancements are common. However, one of the most significant issues facing military spouses is financial stress and hardship. Studies show that one in four military spouses experience food insecurity, meaning they struggle to financially afford to feed themselves and their families.  

The prevalence of this issue, particularly among ranks who earn less, has prompted both government and nonprofit assistance organizations to find ways to support military spouses and families. Many of these programs offer grants and loans for a specific purpose, most often education, training or childcare. Others are simply loans that may be used to cover an emergency expense, healthcare costs, repairs, or other assistance. Here are some of the programs on offer, both in the public and nonprofit sectors: 

Grants and Loans for Non-specific Financial Needs 

Service Branch Assistance Programs  

Each branch of the United States Military maintains a financial assistance program: 

• Air Force Aid Society 
• Army Emergency Relief 
• Coast Guard Mutual Assistance 
• Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society  

These organizations can provide a range of interest-free loans, from small amounts delivered quickly to cover an urgent cost to larger loans which require some amount of documentation and paperwork.  

American Red Cross Hero Care  

The American Red Cross has partnered with various military aid programs to help military families get access to emergency loans and funding. Once you apply, they can help you or your spouse access support services, educational resources, and other assistance via phone or their app.  

H.E.R.O.E.S. Care  

This nonprofit allows service members and their spouses to apply for financial assistance in the form of grants, which can be used to help with the cost of living or unexpected financial issues.  

Grants, Loans or Scholarships and Career Assistance 

The Post-9/11 GI Bill:  

The GI Bill is a federal government program which helps service members to pay for undergraduate, graduate or other education following their service. Military service members who have served at least six years and agree to serve at least four more can transfer the benefits of the GI Bill to one of their dependents, including their spouse. Once this transfer has occurred, your spouse can take full advantage of the program to start or continue their education.  

USA Cares  

This organization was created specifically for veterans who served post-9/11, and their families. If you or your spouse qualifies, you can apply for assistance with military-related or medical expenses.  

My Career Advancement Account Scholarship  

Offered through the Department of Defense Military One Source, this scholarship provides up to $4,000 for eligible military spouses pursuing licenses, associate degrees or certifications. This program offers support and resources for military personnel and can also help you find work that suits your specific needs and availability.  

Mrs. Patty Shinseki Spouse Scholarship Program  

This is a needs-based educational scholarship program which offers financial assistance to Army spouses who wish to obtain an undergraduate degree or a professional certification. The exact amount of aid disbursed changes each year, depending on the number of applicants and their individual needs.  

National Military Family Association Spouse Scholarship  

This nonprofit program offers a scholarship to military spouses who want to obtain any form of education, including GEDs, certifications and clinical hours. The scholarships are only awarded to 10% of applicants, but the program also offers partnerships with specific universities, which can offer additional financial assistance to military spouse students to help them continue their education.  

PenFed Foundation Veteran Entrepreneur Investment Program  

This fundraising program acts as an incubator and advisor for veterans and military spouses who wish to raise startup capital for their business. It also offers funding, advising, and networking assistance.  

US Postal Service Military Care Kit  

While not a financial assistance program, USPS provides Military Care Kits with packing and shipping materials for military spouses to send care packages to their deployed spouse. This is an often-overlooked cost-saving benefit.  

Learn Why Military Spouses Choose Columbia Southern University 

Columbia Southern University is proud to support military service members and their spouses with dedicated financial and academic resources.  We offer flexible online degree programs, and have advisors trained to help you achieve your educational goals. We want to help you get the best education possible without experiencing financial hardship or stress. Learn more about our school and programs here.  

Any reference to United States Department of Defense (DoD) personnel, products or services does not constitute or imply endorsement by the DoD. Paid ad. No federal endorsement of advertiser(s) intended. 

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website.